The recent arrest of Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, in Paris has reignited discussions surrounding the security implications of the platform in Ukraine. Durov faces accusations of facilitating terrorism through his app, a situation that has drawn the attention of Ukrainian officials and activists alike. The timing is particularly sensitive, as Telegram has become the most popular messenger app in Ukraine since the onset of the Russian invasion in 2022, largely due to its anonymous channels that allow for the rapid dissemination of information.
According to a poll conducted by the Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives Foundation and the Razumkov Center, over half of Ukrainians now prefer Telegram channels for news updates, a significant increase from just 20% in 2021. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the platform’s ability to provide real-time updates amidst the chaos of war. However, the anonymity that Telegram offers has raised alarms about its potential misuse, with some experts labeling it a “Trojan horse” within the country.
Yaroslav Azhnyuk, a Ukrainian tech entrepreneur, has been vocal about the potential dangers associated with Telegram. He founded Kremlingram, an investigative group focused on studying the app’s security vulnerabilities and its alleged connections to the Kremlin. Azhnyuk’s concerns are echoed by other officials who have pointed out that Telegram’s functionality is actively exploited by Russian forces to undermine Ukraine’s war efforts. The platform has been used to create fake accounts impersonating Ukrainian military and government officials, thereby spreading disinformation and gathering sensitive information.
Rise of Telegram channels: From political gossip to harassment of journalists
Telegram’s ascent in Ukraine is not merely a byproduct of the war; it has roots in the political landscape that predates the conflict. During the 2019 presidential campaign, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s team effectively utilized social media, including Telegram, to engage with voters. Following his election, this trend continued, with various anonymous channels emerging to share political leaks and rumors, often with significant influence over public perception.
Some of these channels, such as “Joker” and “Dark Knight,” gained notoriety for their sensational content and insider information. Despite President Zelensky’s acknowledgment of the chaos these channels create, his administration has also learned to leverage Telegram’s anonymity for its own advantage. Certain channels have shown unwavering support for the president, leading to speculation about their connections to the President’s Office, which officials have denied.
However, the lack of accountability within these anonymous channels has become a growing concern. Journalists and anti-corruption activists have found themselves targeted by these platforms, which have been implicated in harassment and discrediting efforts against independent media figures. The case of journalist Yurii Nikolov illustrates this troubling trend, as he faced intimidation from individuals linked to a Telegram channel after exposing corruption within the Defense Ministry.
Millions of followers, zero accountability
With over 52,000 active channels in Ukraine, the most popular ones boast millions of subscribers. Channels like “Trukha,” which initially gained traction through sensational content, have now become significant players in the information landscape. Despite their questionable origins and lack of transparency, some of these channels have even been granted access to official government events, blurring the lines between traditional journalism and social media influence.
The unregulated nature of these channels has allowed them to thrive, attracting audiences with their sensationalist content and perceived freedom from accountability. This has raised alarms among experts who warn that the anonymity afforded by Telegram can lead to the spread of misinformation and manipulation of public sentiment.
Telegram and Russia: Founder’s arrest sparks protest
The origins of Telegram add another layer of complexity to its role in Ukraine. Founded by the Durov brothers, who fled Russia amid government pressure, the app has been perceived with skepticism given its Russian roots. Durov’s recent arrest has sparked protests among various factions, highlighting the platform’s significance in both Russian and Ukrainian contexts.
While Telegram has been instrumental in facilitating communication during the war, its ties to Russia and the potential for misuse by hostile actors pose significant challenges for Ukraine. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has previously identified networks of Telegram channels linked to Russian special services, which have been used to spread disinformation and destabilize the situation in Ukraine.
Can Ukraine block Telegram?
Despite the growing concerns, there are currently no indications that Ukrainian authorities are considering a ban on Telegram. Instead, efforts are underway to develop regulations aimed at increasing transparency and accountability on the platform. Proposed legislation seeks to adapt EU standards to ensure that social media platforms operating in Ukraine disclose their ownership structures and engage with local authorities.
As Ukraine navigates the complexities of information warfare, the debate surrounding Telegram underscores the broader challenges of managing digital communication in a time of conflict. The balance between freedom of expression and national security remains a contentious issue, with lawmakers emphasizing the need for accountability in the face of rampant misinformation.
